LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte (PIA) -- The provincial government of Ilocos Norte hopes that all three schools division in the province to clinch the Top 3 spots in the ongoing Region 1 Athletic Association (R1AA) meet.

This was declared during the press conference for R1AA which was led by Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc, Department of Education-1 (Deped) Regional Director Dr. Tolentino Aquino, Schools Division of Ilocos Norte Superintendent Atty. Donato D. Balderas Jr, Ilocos Norte Sports Development Officer Helen Domingo, and Provincial Sports Development Consultant Faivo Bartolome.

In the previous R1AA meet, the province finished as second runner up. This time, Bartolome said that Ilocos Norte’s target is to finish in the top spot. 

He also emphasized the collective aspiration not only for individual success, but also provincial dominance. 

“Since we are in the province of Ilocos Norte, we are hoping that three divisions- Ilocos Norte, Batac City, and Laoag City, will be in the top three as well,” said Bartolome.

In addition to declaring their ambitious target for championship victory, Manotoc also shed light on the meticulous preparation undertaken by the provincial government and the education department given that they are hosting the regional sports event. 

Manotoc shared the province's commitment to providing good facilities, venues, and logistical support to the athletes. 

In light of the effects of El Niño in the province, games are scheduled early morning and late afternoon to ensure safety of the athletes and avoid peak heat conditions.

“For outdoor games, we stop from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. to avoid peak heat,” said the governor.

Moreover, Balderas said they have coordinated with the different host local government units to ensure the supply of water at the billeting areas. When necessary, water rationing is also requested from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and Ilocos Norte Water District (INWD).

Since teachers are tapped to serve as coaches, Balderas pointed out that schools have already been instructed to shift to a modular distance learning modality to ensure uninterrupted delivery of education to learners.

Meanwhile, Manotoc aims for a memorable experience for the delegates that not only promotes tourism, but also uplifts local businesses. 

“With about 10,300 people in here, this will be a good, very healthy activity and an injection to the economy, and something we should be proud of," Manotoc said.

In closing, the governor also emphasized the pride in hosting R1AA meet and considers it as an opportunity to showcase the province’s hospitality and sporting prowess as a sports hub in Northern Luzon. (JCR/MJTAB/SIDC PIA Ilocos Norte)